36 BORDER COLLIES RESCUED FROM DEPLORABLE FLORIDA HOME

What appeared to be an ordinary, well-maintained home from the outside allegedly concealed a heartbreaking animal-hoarding situation. Authorities say 36 border collies were discovered inside a Palm City, Florida, residence and are now receiving medical care, grooming and nourishment as they begin their recovery.

36 DOGS — NOT 5

According to authorities, Paige O’Donnell, 62, repeatedly told investigators there were no more than five dogs inside the home.

When deputies entered after obtaining a search warrant, they reportedly discovered 36.

Investigators said the residence contained feces, urine-soaked materials, boxes and debris.

The dogs were reportedly found heavily matted and covered in feces and urine.

THEIR RECOVERY IS ONLY BEGINNING

The rescued border collies have now been taken into the care of the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast.

The shelter said the dogs are receiving:

Medical attention
Nourishment
Grooming
Ongoing care and assessment

But the organization emphasized that their journey to recovery has only just begun.

After prolonged neglect, some animals can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation before they are ready for adoption or placement.

72 ANIMAL-CRUELTY COUNTS

O’Donnell is facing 36 felony counts of animal cruelty and 36 misdemeanor counts related to allegations that she failed to provide the dogs with proper exercise or adequate air.

A judge set her total bond at $275,000.

As a condition of her release, she was ordered not to own or possess any animals, either temporarily or permanently.

The allegations have not been proven in court.

WHAT AUTHORITIES FOUND INSIDE

The case has shocked investigators in part because authorities said the property appeared well-maintained from the outside.

Inside, however, deputies allegedly found a dramatically different environment.

The discovery highlights how difficult some animal-hoarding situations can be to identify from outside the home.

NOW THE FOCUS IS ON THE DOGS

The Humane Society said its immediate priority is the animals’ well-being while staff assess their medical needs and determine the appropriate path forward.

The shelter is also asking the community for financial assistance.

Caring for 36 neglected dogs at once creates a significant financial burden through veterinary treatment, food, medication, grooming and daily care.

36 DOGS FOUND.

36 LIVES NOW BEGINNING THE LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY.

MEDICAL CARE IS UNDERWAY.

THE OWNER FACES MULTIPLE ANIMAL-CRUELTY CHARGES.

And perhaps the most important part of the story:

These dogs are finally safe.

Now they need time, care and people willing to give them the second chance they deserve.

This post summarizes allegations reported by authorities. Paige O’Donnell is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.